Fuelling Your Energy System – Lactic Acid System

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Once the initial anaerobic energy phase (ATP-CP system) has passed (after 8-10 seconds), your bodies revert to using carbohydrate stores in the form of glucose by breaking down glycogen for energy...this is known as the Lactic acid anaerobic energy system.

The breakdown of glucose yields phosphate which is used to replenish Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP), returning it to Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) which is used to produce energy.

But isn’t Lactic Acid bad?? This by- product has been given a lot of stick over the years; it was blamed for the ‘burn’ and fatigue experienced during training...when in fact, it was providing energy all along! The real culprit is Hydrogen! This is produced in the muscle during exertion when oxygen is in short supply, which increases the acidity of the blood causing that characteristic burn you feel as you fatigue.

Also go for a beta-alanine or carnosine supplement...this has been seen to buffer (soak up) excess hydrogen ions helping you train more effectively, and for longer! These supplements also support the metabolism of fat and weight loss!

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About the Author

Job Role
Qualified Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Sports Science | BSc (Hons) Dietetics
Tom has always participated in sport both recreationally and competitively which led to an unquenchable thirst for information on anything health, nutrition and fitness. After leaving school Tom went on to play for a football academy during which time he studied Sport and Exercise Science. From here he went on to study a BSc (Hons) Sport Science at UEA followed by his second BSc (Hons) degree, this time at the University of Hertfordshire studying Dietetics. Tom has worked in the fitness, educational and clinical nutrition industry starting out at David Lloyd Health and Leisure Clubs. He then went on to work as a Dietitian (RD) in the NHS, during which time he conducted clinics for healthy eating, weight loss and weight gain, as well as specialised consultations on Diabetes, IBS and Coeliac disease to name a few. He has vast amounts of experience at devising diet plans and supplement regimens, as well as working in the community with schools and competitive athletes. As Head Nutritionist and Supplement expert at Discount Supplements Tom is here to provide current and evidence based health and nutrition information to help you reach your health and fitness goals!